Time Limits for Car Accident Claims in Missouri Illinois

After a car accident happens, crash victims only have a limited amount of time to pursue financial recovery via a car accident case. This time frame is known as the statute of limitations, and it differs from state to state.

Filing an auto accident claim within the statute of limitations is crucial to its success – and victims’ overall recoveries – as failing to meet this filing deadline can result in a claim dismissal.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Missouri

In Missouri, the statue of limitations for car accident cases is five (5) years.

In other words, the accident survivor (which could be an injured driver, passenger, bicyclist, pedestrian, motorcycle rider, etc. – or which could be a family who has lost a loved one to a deadly wreck) has five years from the date of their accident to file a civil lawsuit.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Illinois

In Illinois, the statue of limitations for car accident cases is two (2) years. While this can seem like plenty of time to take action, the truth is that:

It can go by quickly, especially when injured people are focused on healing.

As time passes, it’s not uncommon for the strength of these cases to be diluted (as evidence can go missing, witnesses’ memories fade, bills get lost, etc.).

So, the real bottom line when it comes to case filing deadlines, is that it’s generally better to move forward sooner, rather than later, when accident victims are serious about their financial recoveries.

When the Statute of Limitations States

In general, the clock starts ticking on the statute of limitations for a car accident case on either:

If you have been hurt in an auto accident, don’t hesitate to contact a St Louis auto accident lawyer at Brown & Brown Attorneys at Law. We have a long-standing commitment to serving our clients, and we are experienced at aggressively defending our clients’ rights in any legal setting.

To learn more about how we can help you, attend a free, no obligations initial consult with a St Louis auto accident lawyer at Brown & Brown. You can schedule this meeting by calling us at 573-333-3333 for our Missouri office or at 618-888-8888 for our Illinois office. You can also email us using the form at the right-hand side of the screen.

Disclaimer: The information throughout this law firm website is not intended to be taken as legal advice. The information provided by Brown & Brown, LLP is intended to provide general information regarding personal injury, car accidents, truck accidents, mass tort lawsuits, severe bodily injury, workers' compensation, SSDI, and more, for residents near St. Louis, MO, Fairview Heights, IL, and nearby areas of Missouri and Illinois. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact our law firm office today for a free, personal consultation.​​​​​​​ Read our nondiscrimination and ADA compliance statement.